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Staffers in the provincial legislature at Queen's Park in Toronto have apparently adopted a new strategy for dodging questions—clapping loudly while reporters talk.

While the government denied last week when this was happening that it was coordinated, it's pretty clear that it begins in unison and on cue. After a speaker finishes speaking, the staffers begin clapping louder and louder over top of reporters asking questions.

In it, one member of the clapping team admits they are being paid to be there. Mulligan then asks "you're being paid for it, by taxpayers, to clap?" She is ignored.

i wonder whether it's time to name, shame, and embarrass the political staffers who debase themselves by behaving in this unprecedentedly unprofessional way at government news conferences. shame on all of you. #onpolihttps://t.co/eRwM2G0eHf

In the video, the staffers can be seen grinning and laughing at Mulligan and the other reporters present as they continue the applause.

Critics and other members of the public are calling the strategy "anti-democratic," and an attack on the press.

Media is a necessity to promote debate, be the voice of those not willing to speak and be ethical medium to facts and truth. One caveat is that THEY be provided the access to the officials entrusted with decision making capabilities. Drowning out reporters is not fair